Reduce Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) At Source
What does it mean when your exhaust emits black diesel smoke?
Basically, the black smoke from a diesel engine indicates a problem. The likely result is that the life of the engine may be shortened and or cause unnecessary maintenance cost. This is however an opportunity to take the necessary steps to save you money in the long and short term.
What is DPM?
Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) is a carcinogen found in diesel engine emissions. These emissions also include soot particles (a deep powdery substance) mainly composed of carbon, ash, metal wear particles, sulfates, and silicates.
It includes the liquid and solid substances produced in the engine by unburned fuel and oil. Soot particles provide a transport mechanism for other substances to enter the lungs that can cause respiratory problems. DPM particles is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to cause lung cancer.
How are diesel particulate matter formed?
The particulate matter emitted by diesel engines is mainly formed by soot clumps composed of primary particles.
How to reduce diesel particulate matter?
- Install or retrofit a Diesel Particulate Filter:
- If a HJS diesel particulate filter is installed, a reduction of up to 99% of diesel particulate matter can be expected.
- Perform regular preventive maintenance on diesel engines to minimize emissions:
- Maintaining the vehicle will reduce the energy wasted due to resistance and friction, allowing the engine to work more efficiently.
- Use low ash oil:
- Refers to the amount of solid matter left behind when oil is burned.
- Adjust the diesel pump:
- To obtain the perfect air and fuel mixture ratio. To obtain better fuel economy and more engine power.
- Clean the diesel fuel injector:
- Dirty injectors will affect the diesel injection pattern.
- Use additives to clean the injector:
- Damage to the injector will also affect the injection pattern and the amount of diesel injected.
- Replace the air filter:
- Keep to the scheduled maintenance intervals. A clogged air filter will reduce the intake air volume, resulting in a richer fuel-to-air ratio.
- Replace the oil filter:
- Keep to scheduled service intervals to remove solids from being combusted when the oil is burning.
- Consider an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system:
- The EGR system splits part of the exhaust gas discharged from the engine and mixes it back into the fresh intake airflow, thereby reducing emissions.
- Consider installation of a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC):
- Diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) is an aftertreatment component designed to convert exhaust gas (called carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons) into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water. It can decompose pollutants in the exhaust stream of diesel engines and help reduce particulate matter (PM). Catalytic converters are expensive, but you cannot put a price on your health and the environment.
- Use the best Diesel available:
- Low sulfur, 50 PPM is a highly refined middle distillate hydrocarbon fuel with improved engine performance due to 50 ppm diesel having cleaner and more efficient combustion characteristics.
When using the above elements, you can prolong the engine life and improve fuel consumption.
